​​I learned to swim in dangerous waters. The Big Island of Hawai'i does not offer up its treasures so readily. The cliffs make for rocky beaches, and big, intimidating waves. At least for this big city transplant.

Maui on the other hand, feels like an inviting playground. There are miles of beaches to enjoy. Entering the water here feels safe and welcoming.

Two weeks after my arrival here, I had already found two distributers for my work. This was more progress than I was able to make in two years on the Big Island. The contrast of these results can be attributed to many factors, but I like to see it as a sign that this is exactly where we are supposed to be.

A lot of people (myself included), talked about the “intense energy” on the Big Island, as a result of the 5 active volcanoes that reside there. I did my best to harness that energy, and to translate it onto the canvas. To be completely honest though, I’ve never had a more difficult time. I described this process like I was “trying to tame a wild horse”

Maui is a paradisiacal dream incarnate. The turquoise blue-green waters, the miles of sandy beaches, the misty West-side mountains, the regular occurrence of double-rainbows, the dolphins, and the marine life here are a constant source of inspiration.

I see my work changing because I am changing. For the first time in years, I am gravitating towards colors I never dreamed of using, namely: turquoise, teal, aqua, and ultramarine blue. The movement of the waves inspire me to capture that sense of freedom on the canvas. My paintings are an expression of my love affair with Maui.